A Facet Theory Analysis of the Structure of Cognitive Performance in New Zealand Robins (Petroica longipes)

Abstract

In this report, we analyzed the cognitive performance of New Zealand robins (Petroica longipes) using facet theory, smallestspace analysis (SSA), and partial order scalogram analysis (POSA). The data set we analyzed was originally subjected to principle component analysis in order to develop a test battery for avian cognitive performance. We extended these analyses by proposing a two facet, rather than a single component, solution using SSA, and we characterized individual birds by their scores on all tasks using POSA. We note problems with the small sample size and call for our exploratory analyses to be replicated using a larger sample of birds and for the development of further test items using the facet theory's tool, the mapping sentence. We suggest that facet theory and the mapping sentences are research approaches suitable for conceiving, designing, analyzing, and developing theory that may be used within avian cognitive research. We conclude that in our methodological comparison, facet-theory-designed research offers a useful alternative approach to principal component analysis when investigating avian cognition.